Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! No need to panic if planning the perfect surprise for your partner isn’t your specialty. This year many restaurants are offering safe, COVID-compliant indoor Valentine’s Day dining options. However, if you prefer to celebrate this heartfelt holiday at home, you can still replicate the restaurant experience with a romantic dinner for two. So don’t throw in the towel and skip Valentine’s Day altogether, follow our tips to planning your perfect Valentine’s date night at home. There are so many ways that you can make this classic sentiment even more special this year!

Step 1: Pick Out The Menu

On Valentine’s Day, there is a lot of pressure for all of us to put on our chef’s hat and cook a gourmet meal. If you have discovered a newfound love for cooking over quarantine then, this option might be right up your alley. Whether you make your partner’s favorite dish or get inspiration from one of these 40 romantic recipes, any meal that is a step above your average weeknight dinner is sure to impress! 

However, if boxed mac and cheese is your version of cooking a “gourmet” meal then takeout will provide you with a delicious and stress-free option. Many restaurants are offering a Valentine’s Day menu for takeout, so check what your local restaurants are offering. Cooking for your partner is undoubtedly a romantic gesture, but assess your skills in the kitchen. Ultimately, you both want to end up with a tasty dinner, regardless of who cooked it!

Step 2: Grab a Bottle of Wine

The meal may be the star of the show but picking out the right bottle of wine to compliment your dinner can make or break the dish. Red wines are more bitter and should be paired with hearty foods like red meat or pasta. White wines, on the other hand, are perfect for lighter dishes such as fish and roasted vegetables. If you are more into cocktails than wine, test out your mixology skills with these festive cocktails. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling cider will do just the trick to toast to your relationship!

Step 3: Set The Mood (And The Table) 

The best way to spruce up your Valentine’s dinner is with a stylish tablescape. A delicate linen and sweet centerpiece are sure to make the night stand out and most importantly, set the mood. Fill a vase with roses, light some candles, and break out your best china. You can even print out the menu for the evening to imitate the restaurant experience. Need inspiration? We’ve got you covered with some of our stunning table settings that will make your night unforgettable.

1. Red and pink flowers will always be a Valentine’s Day staple. Pairing with silver and gold tableware to complement the classic blooms will keep it feeling modern, without going too cliche. 

2. Mix it up with nontraditional Valentine’s Day colors like rich jewel tones. For a little unexpected romance, add touches of red or pink within the bouquet or through the napkins. 

3. A timeless table setting is always a go-to so, keep it simple with a single stand-out shade. These antique gold accents are even more elegant against the white china and blush table cloth.  

 4. For a more whimsical look, choose one-of-a-kind tableware with interesting shapes and pops of colors. Ditch the roses and pick a bloom with structure like Alstroemeria and Chrysanthemums. 

5. Make it moody with deep shades of purple for a sultry table setting. If floral centerpieces aren’t for you, then try fruit. Not only will your centerpieces be edible, your creativity will amaze your partner.

6. Keep it simple with a neutral table setting so you can go all out with the flowers. Choose a stunning vase and bold, eye popping florals that will really have a chance to shine. 

Vendors Featured:

Venue: The Five Points Inn and Shaker Heritage Barn

Photographers: Indigo Pine Creative and YTK Photography

Design: Five Points Design Co and SBM Event Co

Florals: Ailish Florals and Surroundings Florals Studio

Caterer: 2Shea Catering

Calligrapher: Starry Eyed Letter Co